THE South Durban Community Environmental alliance (SDCEA) has welcomed the delay of the development at the old Durban airport.
According to Desmond D’Sa from the SDCEA. in recent meetings with Transnet, which came out from the Port Blockade in April, Transnet informed them that the Durban Dig-Out Port, which is proposed for the Old Durban International airport site, is delayed for at least another decade.
“While this brings us a substantial amount of satisfaction, we must still consider that this development is in sight and SDCEA will continue to promote sustainable development at all costs,” said D’Sa.
With regards to fishermen, D’Sa said there has been a few meetings to discuss their access to various fishing spots and issues concerning permits that are outstanding.
“There is a risk assessment in question and we are currently in the process of following that through. The risk assessment will determine the safety concerns of the north and south piers.
“Transnet have made initiatives and we welcome those initiatives that include becoming more participatory in discussions and decision making processes because fisher folk are in fact regarded as port users.
“We will, however, still vouch for proper engagement to all stakeholders and will continue to express our views,” he added.
In addition discussions on the status of the farmers have also been discussed with Transnet and their position on the land is said to be secured for another decade.
The SDCEA have requested that a written document be drawn up in order for the farmers to ensure their positions on site.
“We will continue fighting for their rights to maintain on that strip of land or be compensated in some way for the inconveniences obtained through this development,” said D’Sa.
The next meeting will take place early next year where all of these points will be laid out.
- Supplied.
For more information, contact D’Sa on 083 982 6939 or Priya Pillay on 072 035 4138 or alternatively the SDCEA office on 031 461 1991.
